Social Housing Association of Cape Breton
Organization profile published 1982
Year Published: 1982
Resource Type: Organization
Cx Number: CX2666
Abstract:
This non-profit association was formed in 1970 to provide decent housing to large, low-income families. Since then, 165 units of housing have been purchased in all local municipalities in the industrial area of Cape Breton (as well as in the outlying municpal areas). The emphasis has been on rehabilitaiton of existing buidlings versus new construction.
The SOCIAL HOUSING ASSOCIATION OF CAPE BRETON retains the deed to the newly purchased home, wth CMHC holding the first mortgage. The family, when able to pay off the balance of mortgage and other outstanding costs, are deeded the property directly. A tenant-purchase agreement with the family at the time of occupancy guarantees that they shall acquire equity in the properties and shall purchase them for the balance of the mortgage. Families assume the properties initiially as owners and as such are required to maintain and care for the properties occupied. The families assume the responsibility to pay the principle and interest on the mortgage along with taxes, insurance and utility costs.
The cost of subsidy required under this programmed is far less than that experienced through government subsidized programmes. The association provides services to families over the above the provision of the basic house (e.g. debt counselling). The cost of these services are not recognized by CMHC and as a result no subsidy is available to this programme. While demand for such housing is high, delays in bureaucratic processes and the lack of government subsidization has placed the continuation of this programme in jeopardy.
This organization no longer exists.
This abstract was published in the Connexions Digest in 1982.
See also CX2250.
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